To Assess the Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Regarding Baby Bottle Tooth Decay Among Mothers of Admitted Children (1–3 Years of Age) in a Selected Hospital, New Delhi

Background: Baby Bottle Tooth Decay (BBTD) is a common yet preventable condition that primarily affects infants and toddlers due to prolonged bottle feeding with sugary liquids. Parental awareness, particularly of mothers, is critical in early oral health prevention. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) regarding BBTD among mothers of admitted children aged 1–3 years. It also sought to find associations between KAP and selected demographic variables, and to examine the correlation between knowledge and practice. Methods: A descriptive, non-experimental quantitative research design was adopted. The study included 40 mothers selected through purposive sampling from a selected hospital in New Delhi. Data was collected using a structured knowledge questionnaire, a 5-point Likert scale for attitude, and a practice checklist. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for analysis. Results: 67.5% of mothers had average knowledge, 27.5% had poor knowledge, and only 5% had good knowledge. Attitudes were mostly neutral (67.5%), with 20% negative and 12.5% positive. Practice scores indicated that 60% had poor practice, 37.5% had fair, and only 2.5% had good practice. A weak negative correlation was observed between knowledge and practice (r = - 0.0778, p < 0.05). Significant associations were found between KAP and demographic variables such as age, religion, number of children, education level, and information sources. Conclusion: Most mothers had average knowledge, neutral attitudes, and poor practices regarding BBTD. Structured awareness programs are necessary to improve preventive practices.